Kanri – Free Offline Alternative to Trello
If you like the Kanban method but are tired of using bloated online tools, Kanri is a free, open-source alternative that you can install on Linux, macOS and Windows that works completely offline. It even supports importing from Trello.
We recommend the Kanban method and related tools for tracking your work and visualizing projects . And there’s nothing about Kanban that needs to be digital: it works well with sticky notes on the wall or even a notepad. However, most people rely on apps like Trello to do their work, but Trello has a few limitations. Firstly, there is no offline mode on the computer and the app has a habit of asking you to update. If you prefer something simpler and that works offline, Kanri may be what you need.
To get started, simply download the app and open it. There’s no need to create an account – you can just start using the app. You can create new boards and start adding cards. Click on a card to view more detailed information.
You can add a description, due date, tasks and tags – and that’s it. There are no attachments or collaboration features, which may be a drawback for some. There’s also no cloud storage or syncing – everything is stored on your local device. The board can be exported when it’s time to replace the computer; however, the lack of syncing means this app won’t be for everyone.
On the other hand, if all you want is a quick Kanban app that you can use on your computer, Kanri is almost perfect. It’s fast and works without an internet connection, and there’s no limit to the number of boards or cards you can add.
There are a few nice touches too. You can set a custom background for all your boards to make them easy to distinguish from each other at a glance, and also make work a little more fun. And in the settings there is support for customizing the color scheme.
And another important feature is the ability to pull existing boards from Trello. You can import all of your Trello boards at once or any individual board—whatever you prefer. All columns and cards are captured, including descriptions, due dates, and any subtasks. What’s missing is investment and action, mainly because Kanri doesn’t support these features.
Even so, I’m willing to bet that Kanri supports most of what people use more feature-rich (and expensive) Kanban apps for. Give it a try if you’re looking for something simpler.